7. Looking at art

Abstract

The physical properties of artworks have an important influence on how we understand them as objects. ‘Looking at art’ outlines some examples of the different mediums and techniques of producing art, to show how an awareness of these factors can help our understanding of art history. It considers sketches and drawing; tempera painting; oil painting; and the modelling, carving, and casting of sculpture. Each example acts as a kind of vignette to show how the physical properties of an artwork can add another layer of meaning to its history. This very brief survey shows that artists are not always confined by the medium in which they work.